Visit Midhurst & Explore the Heart of the South Downs

Discover the rich history of Midhurst, a charming market town with royal connections, horological heritage, and literary links. With a medieval Market Square, and a stunning architecture mixture of Tudor, Edwardian, Georgian, Victorian and a Knights Hospitaller archway hidden away, Midhurst is predictably picture postcard perfect. But the best kept secrets go beyond that of any typical market town. With links to Queen Elizabeth I, Henry VIII, the order of the Knights Hospitaller, Lord Montague and his infamous footman Guy Fawkes, as well as being the home to horology.

The early twentieth century saw, the writer HG Wells apprenticed to a chemist in the town. He attended the Midhurst Grammar School (Midhurst Rother College), returning later to teach there. Midhurst is the setting of several of Wells' short stories. It appears as Sussexville in Mr Marshall's Doppelganger, The Plattner Story and The Man Who Could Work Miracles. Other mentions also include the chemist's shop and the Grammar School in The Dream (1924).

Today, Midhurst is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Offering a variety of attractions, including the home of British Polo, beautiful countryside, and a vibrant cultural scene with plenty to discover.

The wide streets of Midhurst has plenty to offer, beautiful buildings, and independent shops. There's something for everyone, whether you're interested in history, shopping, eating, pampering or local culture.

A Shopper's Paradise, North Street is the main bustling street running through the heart of the town. You'll find a mixture of vintage clothing, cafes, wine bars and restaurants. 

Head to the area around Red Lion Hill, Church Street, Wool Lane, and Duck Lane. This area has many charming independent shops and historic buildings including the historic Spread Eagle Hotel, which is steeped in history. 

Local Talent and Events, Midhurst is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. There are many talented local artists, musicians, and craftspeople. You can find everything from wine and beer to chocolate and soap.

During August, Midhurst hosts the MADhurst festival. This month-long festival features a variety of events, including music, theatre, dance, and comedy. There are also many other events throughout the year, such as farmers and vintage markets, community festivals or why not indulge in a spa day at either The Spread Eagle Hotel or Park House Hotel & Spa.

The iconic Cowdray Heritage – the ruins of one of England’s most important early Tudor houses (it rivalled Hampton Court), sits at the top of Midhurst. The house was largely destroyed by a fire in the 1790s, and has been a picturesque ruin ever since, highly evocative of Tudor times. Before the fire, Guy Fawkes is known to have briefly worked at the house as a footman. After extensive refurbishment, the ruins were open to the public again in 2007 and it's possible to visit the gatehouse and restored kitchens, as well as gazing at the impressive ruins themselves. Nuzzled between a secret walled garden (worth a visit, not to be missed) and the famous ‘lawns’ of Cowdray Park, where polo players gather for the British Open Polo Championships Gold Cup every summer, it’s no surprise that this area is one of the town’s biggest draws.

Even further back in history is St Ann's Hill, the site of Midhurst's Castle from Norman times until the Middle Ages. The Castle was built overlooking the River Rother and a short walk up the hill gives the opportunity to see what's left of the castle earthworks and imagine what Midhurst might have been like a thousand years ago, as a small military town.

Midhurst offers a haven for every kind of traveller, with a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From whimsical treehouses and luxurious spa hotels to charming pubs with rooms, cozy B&Bs, and even pet-friendly lodgings, you're sure to find the perfect place to unwind and explore the area.

Midhurst is a charming market town nestled in the heart of the South Down National Park, in West Sussex. It's easily accessible by car and public transport, making it a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay.